Surprise Bundesliga leaders TSG Hoffenheim have snapped up former Stuttgart keeper Timo Hildebrand on a free transfer. Hildebrand, who once did not let in a goal for 884 minutes in the Bundesliga ( a league record), was released by Spanish giants Valencia last week. He arrived at the Mestalla in July 2007 on a three year deal, but failed to adjust to conditions in Spain, and was overlooked by Unai Emery, who preferred Brazilian Renan to Hildebrand. Hildebrand and veteran Santiago Canizares, the man for whom he was initially brought in as a replacement, were also allegedly involved in some arguments with each other.
Cologne were also reportedly interested in securing Hildebrand’s signature.
The length of the deal is yet to be announced, but Hildebrand will join Ralf Rangnick’s side in January. Rangnick was also the person who gave Hildebrand his professional debut at Stuttgart a decade ago.